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Rabat – Spanish sports outlet Marca has described Morocco’s victory at the U20 World Cup in Chile as “no surprise,” calling it the product of “a clear plan from the Moroccan training federation, looking ahead to the 2030 World Cup.”
Marca commended the young Atlas Lions for their consistency and tactical discipline throughout the tournament.
“From their first 2-0 victory against Spain in the Group C opener, the ‘Group of Death,’ they demonstrated all the footballing virtues that have led them to a historic title,” write the Spanish outlet.
According to Marca, Morocco’s progression through the competition followed a coherent plan: “The same recipe that they combined to later defeat Brazil 1-2 and reach the last match of Group C against Mexico with their homework done.”
The Spanish daily highlighted the strength of Morocco’s defensive unit, writing that “Ismael Baouf, Fouad Zahouani and Ismail Bakhty led Morocco’s defensive wall.”
It added that “the defensive solidity was provided by their two central defenders, who demonstrated an order and calmness worthy of professionals.”
The article further emphasized the team’s tactical balance, describing how Morocco alternated “between a line of three, with five up front, or the classic 4-4-2 depending on the needs of the match.”
Marca also spotlighted captain Housanne Essadak, saying he “was tireless in pressing but, above all, a beacon for all his teammates, both in pressing and quickly getting the ball out to the wingers.”
Coach Mohamed Ouahbi was also credited for his tactical intelligence and psychological preparation.
Marca wrote that he “won the challenge against Argentina in the final against his rival, Diego Placente, with a spider web that dismantled Argentina’s interior game, a 3-5-2, well closed and with a clear idea of counterattack.”
Beyond the tournament, Marca highlighted the broader vision behind Morocco’s football success.
“The Moroccan Federation has had a clear plan for years, with players in various European leagues, some already established, like Brahim at Real Madrid, or Abde, who moved from Barcelona to Betis,” it argued.
The article concluded by underlining that this plan is part of a larger ambition linked to the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Spain, Portugal, and Morocco will co-host.
